WhatsApp is launching a new app that would give smartwatch wearers even simpler access to its services. With that, it's finally offering a WearOS-specific app for devices equipped with Google's operating system.
WhatsApp Available for WearOS Devices on Top of Android, iOS, and Desktop
According to the story by Android Police, users have been able to enjoy what was described as "stellar convenience," which comes from WhatsApp being available on different operating systems. These systems include Android, iOS, and desktop.
The features of WhatsApp on different systems, however, might differ from each other, and now, it launches a specific type of app for devices with WearOS installed. WearOS is Google's operating system specifically designed for smartwatches.
With Google WearOS on the list, WhatsApp has announced its official device support with this operating system. This means a service catering specifically to WearOS instead of a different version of its Android offering.
The New Standalone App Will Provide More Features that WhatsApp Did Through the Bluetooth Sync
Android Police notes that the new app on the operating system is more versatile and gives users access to communications even on their wrist. This comes as an update to the previous Bluetooth sync feature, which previously allowed WearOS devices to access the app's notifications.
Previously, with Bluetooth sync, users were able to access the WearOS app on smartwatches. However, they were only good for notifications, and users still weren't able to interact by responding to texts within the smartwatch itself.
Instead, users would only receive notifications on their WearOS devices and need to go to their phone to reply to an important message. The Verge issued a report regarding the standalone app for WhatsApp specifically for WearOS devices.
WhatsApp for WearOS Allows Users to Make Simple One-Click Replies from Auto-Generated Options
Google has long teased a WhatsApp version that would work on its WearOS during the annual developer conference, which happened earlier in the year. This was also where the company announced Peloton and Instagram apps specifically for WearOS.
The WhatsApp client on the WearOS device would allow users to respond to texts, voice messages, emojis, or even make simple one-click replies from auto-generated options. Users can also place video calls or use the app independently without needing the smartphone as long as the smartwatch has LTE connectivity.
So far, the announcement has been timed close to the Galaxy Unpacked event, which would likely see the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series. However, Android Police says that the debut would "hopefully" come with the WearOS 4, which comes from the Android 13.
Read Also: Reddit's Original Icon Now Locked Behind Paywall; iOS App Icon Sparks Debate Online
Standalone WhatsApp for WearOS Devices Not Yet Available on the Google Play Store
The large user base of WhatsApp reportedly means that users with WearOS-compatible devices could take advantage of this functionality. However, it was also noted that the app is not yet officially available on the Google Play Store.
So far, the WhatsApp WearOS version is only available when users sideload it from the APKMirror. Fans will have to wait until the official launch if they want to download it directly from Play Store.
Related Article: Google Nearby Share Now Available on Windows-Other New Improvements
